Employees looking forward to post-recession ‘R&R’

After leaving vacation days on the table last year to focus on work (or more likely, trying to recession-proof their jobs), this summer, employees apparently are ready to shake off the recession and get some time away from the office — and they’re not worried about what you’ll have to say about it.

According an online survey from Adecco Staffing US, a full 78% are not concerned about their job security if they take a vacation — a possible sign that confidence is increasing in the workplace as the economy continues to rebound.

And don’t expect to hear from them while they’re gone, either. Only 37% plan to connect with the office via cell or e-mail while on vacation this summer. I don’t know who these folks are, but they’re much more committed than I am. No way am I tending to work while on vacation. It’s just not gonna happen. But I digress.
 
Also in the survey:

* Although employees are eager for time off, they’re still honest. More than three-quarters (76%) of employees say they won’t call in sick just to take time off.
 
* Most won’t check in via phone or e-mail on vacation, but they’re not going overboard. Sixty-eight percent say they wouldn’t purposely take a vacation in a location with no phone or e-mail service so they don’t have to check-in with work. (The other 32% percent who would must be truly burned out!)
 
“Employers preparing for summer months may want to consider offering or reinstituting summer perks, where possible, which could potentially boost employee morale and help aid employee retention,” suggests Rich Thompson, vice president of learning and performance at Adecco Group North America. “We’ve mentioned before that as the job market improves, we’ll likely be seeing a shift in workplace moves and now is the time for employers to focus on building positive experiences for employees.”
 
Among Addecco’s tips for employers are a few no-brainers (saying “thank you” to employees, and promoting a culture of fun and work-life balance), and one for managers that I intend to fully take to heart: Use all of your vacation time. “When your team sees you taking care of yourself in this manner, they’ll be more likely to follow suit — and that’s a great way to keep morale high,” Adecco advises.

Well, that’s the least I can do for my wonderful staff! As such, no post tomorrow — I’m taking a vacation day. Enjoy the weekend, and I’ll see you back on Monday.